Six dead after fiery car crash off Newark overpass—shocking details emerge

A tragic accident late Friday night claimed the lives of six individuals in Newark, New Jersey, after their vehicle careened off an elevated roadway, struck a support column of the Pulaski Skyway, and burst into flames. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the incident, which unfolded at approximately 10:47 p.m. near the intersection of Raymond Boulevard and Blanchard Street.

The vehicle was reportedly navigating a southbound on-ramp when it veered off the roadway. Eyewitness accounts described the car becoming airborne before colliding with the column and igniting upon impact. The fire consumed the vehicle, leaving no survivors. Investigators are currently piecing together the events that led to this harrowing crash.

Local heroes among victims

Among the six victims were two prominent figures in New Jersey’s sports community: Hudson Catholic High School football coaches Lamar McKnight and Brad Cunningham. Their loss has sent shockwaves through the school and local community, with students and colleagues expressing their grief and sharing memories of the coaches’ dedication.

One student spoke about Coach McKnight’s inspiring mentorship, noting how he instilled discipline and passion in his team. Rutgers University’s head coach reflected on Cunningham’s storied career as a former player, calling his death a “devastating loss” for the football fraternity.

Authorities have not yet released the names of the remaining victims as they work to notify families. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office has promised a detailed update in the coming days.

Investigative focus

Law enforcement is examining various factors, including road conditions, vehicle speed, and potential mechanical malfunctions, to determine what caused the accident. Preliminary findings suggest excessive speed may have contributed to the crash, though officials have not confirmed this. Investigators are also seeking input from witnesses and reviewing footage from nearby traffic cameras.

Grieving a community-wide loss

The tragedy has left a deep void in the Newark community, especially at Hudson Catholic High School, where the coaches were not just educators but role models. Candlelight vigils and memorial services are being organized to honor the victims, with attendees sharing stories of resilience and unity during a dark time.

Support services have been arranged for students, staff, and families grappling with the loss. Counselors stress the importance of open dialogue and emotional support to help individuals navigate their grief.

Broader implications for road safety

The crash has reignited conversations about the safety of elevated roadways, particularly ramps and bridges that may lack sufficient protective barriers. Transportation safety experts have pointed out the need for improved infrastructure, including guardrails and road signage, to prevent such incidents in the future.

A transportation analyst noted that crashes of this nature often involve factors like driver distraction, poor visibility, or inadequate road maintenance. Public pressure is mounting on local authorities to reassess the safety measures of high-traffic areas like the Pulaski Skyway’s access points.

Community comes together

As Newark mourns this devastating loss, the community is rallying to support the families of the victims. Local businesses and organizations have offered to fund funeral costs, while sports teams across the state are planning tribute games to honor the legacy of McKnight and Cunningham.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is urging anyone with additional information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of understanding all factors involved in this tragic event.